Nigerian-born scientist, Professor Ngozi Franca Okoye, has emerged as one of two finalists contesting a position on the Board of Directors of Sigma Xi, a United States-based scientific research honour society.
Okoye, who resides in the United Kingdom, is seeking the Full Directorship representing the Canadian/International Constituency in the organisation’s 2026 board election. If successful, she will serve a three-year term beginning July 1, 2027.
According to a statement obtained by The Punch on Thursday, her candidacy marks the first time an African woman and a person of Nigerian origin has contested the position.
Established at Cornell University in 1886, Sigma Xi is among the oldest scientific research honour societies globally.
The organisation boasts a membership that includes more than 200 Nobel Prize laureates, including renowned physicist Albert Einstein.
Okoye’s progression to the final stage of the election follows her previous contributions to the organisation.
She was elected to its Committee on Nominations and also served on the Global Outreach Committee, roles that gave her experience in leadership, nominations and international engagement.
Speaking on her candidacy, Okoye said the contest offered an opportunity to strengthen Nigerian and African representation in international scientific leadership.
“I am deeply honoured to be standing for this position and to represent Nigeria and Africa on an international scientific platform. For me, the opportunity itself is historic. I am enjoying the campaign, embracing the journey and making the most of this incredible experience,” she said.
Okoye has spent 16 years working in the UK university sector.
Before moving into academia, she worked as a systems and software engineer with British Telecommunications and as a data migration scientist with GlaxoSmithKline.
Her experience also includes organisational leadership, having served as a director and trustee of an educational trust in the UK.
She has additionally held the position of president of the Union of Catholic Mothers in her parish.
The election is scheduled for November, with eligible Sigma Xi members expected to vote for their preferred candidates.
Calling on Nigerian and African scientists within the organisation to support her bid, Okoye said the election presented an opportunity to improve the representation of African professionals in global scientific institutions.
“I am proud to carry the Nigerian and African story into this international scientific leadership space. I am asking my fellow Nigerian and African scientists and all scientists from all backgrounds within the Sigma Xi community to support my candidacy and make their voices count.
“This is not only about me; it is about representation and what is possible for African scientists on the global stage,” she said.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the outcome, Okoye said she remained committed to making the most of the experience.
“History has already been made. I want to enjoy the process, embrace the journey and make the most of this incredible opportunity,” she said.
